How Much Is Enough? Making Financial Decisions That Create Wealth and Well-being

by Arun Abey, Andrew Ford

How can millions of readers come to grips with their financial situation at a time when nothing seems to be enough? Arun Abey and Andrew Ford believe that the answer lies beyond the balance sheet in the heart and spirit of the individual investor. Having advised investors around the globe, the authors dig deep into the latest economic and social research as they bridge the worlds of financial security and personal well-being. Their book guides readers through a holistic approach to financial planning, one based on the fact that money is only one element in the overall chemistry of a happy life. Readers will learn how to manage their investment portfolios in coordination with their aspirations. Brilliantly combining economics and social thought, How Much Is Enough promises to revolutionize the investment world. Complete with succinct economic advice as well as stories from those who have found peace beyond their bank accounts, the book gives readers the confidence to pursue their own paths toward a secure and fulfilling future. Find happiness and wealth will follow.

Genres: Finance, Money, Nonfiction, Psychology, Economics

270 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2008

Reviews

[Shanon · Rating 2 out of 5]

"Find happiness and discover exactly how much is enough."

I don't think the authors achieve their dual claims but I doubt any book could so no real criticism there. The book includes lots of Warren Buffett quotes as many similar money management books do. Unfortunately they all leave out his most relevant one - "the net result of hiring professional management is a huge minus" (if you're interested YouTube 'Warren Buffett Exposes Hedge Funds').

If you're looking for help with managing money read Scott Pape's Barefoot Investor. If you're looking for help finding happiness... maybe try the Dalai Lamas' of the world rather than the financial planners ;)

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really unique book that combines a discussion of financial planning/strategy/literacy and investments with an appreciation of recent research into behavioural economics, positive psychology and happiness studies.

It's strange to read a book that quotes ultra capitalist Warren Buffet, as well as the pioneer of 'flow', mihaly csikszentmihalyi.

It probably deserves a wider readership. But the lack of a celebrity fronting the book, and a certain dryness in it's style, suggests that it won't get one unfortunately.

[Karen Trotter · Rating 2 out of 5]

Two paragraphs were devoted to the fact that you should track your expenses and income and calculate your net worth, but not to how. Many pages were devoted to explaining why and how humans are bad at making investment decisions, and that people seldom devote as much time to understanding investing and risk as they do to their own professions. But the authors go blithely in, expecting everyone to spend a chunk of time to doing just that in order to pick an advisor, and to evaluate whether the advisor’s advice is appropriate.

Index funds are not mentioned once. 🙄

[Joel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! I thought is was very informative and gave insights that were not just financially helpful but overall positive. For someone working the Dave Ramsey baby steps like myself it's a good complimentary book in that journey. Two thumbs up!!!

[Alison Condliffe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting to mix well being with finance. I got stuck in the middle but the end improved. I would have liked more real life stories to illustrate points.

[Vicki Liston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now more than ever, most people are looking to stretch their budget and make every dollar count. In these times where the economy is unstable at best and inflation runs rampant, it has become essential to reevaluate current living expenses, honestly explore standards, and plan for the expected costs in the future. But how are you to know how much is enough? Financial gurus and authors Arun Abey and Andrew Ford offer their aptly named book to answer that very question.

“How Much Is Enough? Making Financial Decisions That Create Wealth and Well-Being” is a well-rounded guide to short and long term financial planning. While asking the tough questions, they force their readers to take a good, hard look at the concept of ‘money’ – the psychology and resultant behaviors behind the power we give it – and why we may not be where we think we should be. Abey and Ford present some extremely profound information and I found the application to my own situation to be both surprising and eye-opening!

“How Much Is Enough?” will completely alter your view of ‘money’ and ‘wealth’ while informing you to what is possible with some effort. The authors utilize the examples of successful individuals such as Warren Buffett, Bill Gates, and Steve Jobs to create a foundation for their information while motivating the reader to think of more than just ‘income creation’. Instead, they promote a ‘give to receive’ approach – giving back to further global growth and heighten personal satisfaction. “How Much Is Enough?” provides a truly holistic method towards financial stability and ultimately, real happiness.

Normally when I review books, I ensure any recommends I give are directed to only those interested in the basic genre(s) it fits within; very rarely do I read a book I think everyone should read. But in this case, I cannot think of a person or group that shouldn’t read this book! We live in a society in constant need of more cash and more toys while never finding that feeling of satisfaction in attaining ‘success’; even lottery winners have not found the happiness they expected in their winnings. Authors Arun Abey and Andrew Ford help find balance, modify money attitudes, and alleviate the stress in future financial planning. By far, “How Much Is Enough? Making Financial Decisions That Create Wealth and Well-Being” is the most enlightening book I’ve read all year – an absolute must read!

--Reviewed by Vicki Landes, author of “Europe for the Senses – A Photographic Journal”

[Bernie Bolger · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the best book I have ever read on the connection between money and happiness. It absolutely changed my life. Having spent the last 15 years in business, I realised this was not my passion, sold up and am now embarking on journey of self-discovery and re-education. It is an essential guide to living an authentic life. Every parent should read it, live it and tole model it for their children. I wish mine had.

[Brendan Brooks]

great read, perfect for investors looking for smart, simple ways to invest for security of mind and packet. Quality, Value, Diversity & Time, and the recognition and focus on gratitude and the positives of life make for well being and well off.

[Keith Simpson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Easy to read , the earlier in life you read it and implement some of their suggestions the better